Youth-oriented apparel retailer Too Inc on Wednesday won an initial court injunction against off-price retailer TJX Cos Inc from selling 31 styles of Limited Too brand apparel at TJ Maxx and Marshalls stores.

The Ohio-based operator of nearly 500 stores filed the suit earlier this year amid claims that certain styles of young girl's apparel sold by TJ Maxx and Marshalls were either unauthorised or counterfeit.

In seeking the ban, Too, which was spun off by Limited Brands Inc three years ago, said it would suffer irreparable harm from the TJX Cos' continued sales of unauthorised Limited Too apparel.

In granting the preliminary injunction, the Ohio court found that TJX Cos obtained large quantities of apparel produced without Too authorisation, possibly causing confusion among consumers.

"Too Inc will continue to pursue any legal remedy necessary to protect the Limited Too brand including our trademark, and the quality of merchandise it stands for," said its EVP and COO, Kent Kleeberger.

Sherry Lang, vice president of investor and public relations for TJX Cos, said her firm "conducts its business with the utmost integrity" but could not comment further as litigation was still pending.